Fishermen from seven beaches in Suba South constituency have signed a memorandum of understanding with Victory Farms as the company starts to expand its production.
Victory Farms started operating at Rowo Beach in Suba South in 2016 where it set up fish cages.
The MoU will give the company an opportunity to establish cages in new areas. Having more cages will increase its catch and supply throughout the country.
Chief Development Officer Caesar Asiyo said they expect to increase production by more than 40 per cent.
“The company expects to increase its production by setting up more cages in Lake Victoria. Increase in production is going to be gradual and done over a period of time,” Asiyo said.
They aim at producing up to 150,000 tons annually from the current 100,000.
This is after President William Ruto issued Victory Farms, through its founder Joe Rehmann, a license to expand its territories in the lake for more fish production.
Some of the new territories Victory Farms have acquired to establish its new cages include Kisegi, Litare, Jiw Dendi, Uterere and Nyagwethe.
Cage fishing is considered the solution to dwindling fish production in Lake Victoria.
Experts say it is the future of aquaculture as it ensures there is steady supply of the delicacy to the market.
The practice ensures the catch is of the right size and eliminates the need for fishermen to sail over long distances in search of fish using nets.
Community relations coordinator David Otieno said they expect a symbiotic relationship between the company and fishermen.
Victory farms will introduce aquaponic farming after the signing of the deal. Aquaponic farming combines the cultivation of aquatic organisms such as fish with the growing of plants, without using soil.
“Aquaponic programme will ensure water used in fish breeding is used to irrigate land for horticulture. We want residents who engage in crop farming benefit as well,” Otieno said.
Suba Beach Management Unit chairman William Onditi said residents from the new areas where the cages are to be established should be employed.
“Fishermen expect the company to continue undertaking its cooperate social responsibilities. It has been constructing classrooms in nearby schools, giving bursaries and improving roads ,”Onditi said.
In response to Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga's appeal, Victory Farms is also looking for space at Riwa Special Economic Zone in Karachuonyo constituency to install its processing plant.
Wanga had made the call during the county's second International Investment Conference held in February.
Asiyo said a meeting with Homa Bay county officials was held to discuss when to establish the processing plant.
“We have been given an assurance that the flood is being controlled to make the land habitable. The county government has promised to address the challenges,” he said.
